Question

What is speciation? List four factors that could lead to speciation. Which of these cannot be a major factor in the speciation of a self-pollinating plant species? Explain. Give reason to justify your answer.

Answer 1

Speciation is the formation of new species from the pre-existing population.
Factors responsible for speciation:
(i) Genetic drift
(ii) Geographical isolation
(iii) Natural selection
(iv) Mutation
Geographical isolation cannot be a major factor in the speciation of a self pollinating plant species because physical barrier cannot be created in self-pollinating plants.